Ancient Kingdoms

11 km east of Limassol lies Amathus, one of the greatest ancient kingdoms of the island. This site is saturated with legends and history dating from at least 3000 years ago. Built on the coastal cliffs it provides amazing views of the sea and insights into the past. 19 km west of Limassol on the road to Paphos lies the second Ancient Kingdom of Kourion, one of the most breathtaking archaeological sites. This location also includes a spectacular Greco-Roman Theatre, overlooking the bay which was built in the 2nd century BC. Nowadays, it is still used for musical and theatrical performances throughout the summer months.

Archaeological Sites and Cultural Monuments

Down near the old port is the Medieval Castle, where in 1191, Richard the Lionheart allegedly married Queen Berengaria of Navarre and crowned her Queen of England. Another castle worth visiting is Kolossi castle which through the ages, served as the Grand Commandery of the Knights Templar and later as the headquarters for the Knights of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem. Limassol also has several museums such as the Natural History Museum, the municipal Art gallery, and the Folk Art Museum, where rooms are specially staged to realistically display the old clothes and utensils.

Beaches

There are many beautiful long stretches of beaches throughout the district including Governors beach, Amathous Beach, Ladys Mile and Pissouri Beach. Most beaches contain water sports for all the family and have useful amenities such as changing rooms, showers, cafes and bars.

Entertainment

Limassol is famous for its festivals. The most famous being the Wine Festival held during the beginning of September in the Municipal Gardens. During the festival visitors have a chance to taste the Cypriot wines, which are offered for free, whilst watching folk dancing and singing. Other festivals are the Flower Festival in May, the Festival of the Flood in June, the Carnival and the Ancient Greek Drama Festival. Limassol nightlife is also never dull with its numerous bars, clubs and restaurants. It is unique due to its stylish beach bars where one can sit inches away from the shore line sipping cocktails and hearing the waves break.

Places of Interest

The Municipal Gardens of Limassol fulfill multiple purposes including housing botanical gardens, an open air theatre and a small zoological corner. Furthermore, many wine tours are organized to the surrounding wineries where visitors can witness the production of wine and taste the final product. Limassol is also known as a shopping centre offering a wide selection from ultra-modern to traditional and handmade products. The most prominent shopping streets are St Andrews Street, not far from the seafront promenade, and Makarios Avenue.

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